KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 26, 2026 — Malaysia attracted 42.2 million visitors in 2025, marking an 11.2 % rise from the 38 million recorded in 2024 and a 20.4 % increase compared with 2019 figures. This strong performance has laid a solid groundwork for the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) tourism campaign.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi noted that the growth demonstrates the tourism sector’s sustained momentum as a key contributor to national economic expansion.
To maintain this positive trend, the government is enhancing coordination across all ministries and agencies in preparation for VM2026.
During the recent Tourism and Culture Cabinet Committee meeting, officials highlighted the strategic role of the tourism industry in national development, especially its contributions to gross domestic product (GDP), job creation, and fiscal strength.
The Deputy Prime Minister urged government agencies to work together seamlessly to draw more international visitors, encourage them to stay longer, and boost their spending.
As VM2026 becomes a central national priority, close collaboration with state governments, private sector partners, and industry stakeholders — led by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) — is considered essential for strengthening tourism development and competitiveness.
Participants also discussed key policy matters affecting the tourism sector, including the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Programme, the Premium Visa Programme (PVIP), proposals to reform tourism vehicle regulation, the potential Umrah transit hub, and the expansion of cruise tourism.
The meeting reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to integrated action across ministries and agencies to address tourism-related issues and ensure that VM2026 meets its targets and maximizes economic benefits.